MP speaks out over fraudsters

A HAMPSHIRE MP has pressed the Prime Minister for action over fraudsters who use scams to con vulnerable people out of their money.

Caroline Nokes told MPs £3.5 billion was lost by UK consumers every year as a result of fraudulent letters, emails and phone calls that promise cash windfalls like lottery wins and inheritances.

Speaking during Prime Minister's Questions at Westminster, she said: "Is my Right Hon Friend the Prime Minister aware that £3.5 billion per year is lost by UK consumers and will he commit to working with the Home Office to amend existing legislation to protect the predominantly elderly and vulnerable victims."

David Cameron said she had raised a "very important point".

He said: "This is a growing area of crime and criminology that is taking advantage of the internet but often people who are often very vulnerable".

The government's new National Crime Agency will have a dedicated unit to tackle the problem, he added.

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